Fit to Fight, a weight-loss challenge competition in which 12 Miami chefs are battling and sweating it out, kicked off June 30. Last weekend, Todd Erickson and Jamie DeRosa collaborated on a brunch after a 45-minute spinning session at Flywheel. Part of the competition is raising a minimum of $1,500 through events and goal-based pledges.
Hoping to exceed the minimum, chef Aaron Brooks of Edge Steak & Bar will be bringing back his popular cooking classes on Saturday, September 13. The classes will keep to the theme of leading a healthy lifestyle without forgoing Brook's delectable food.
See also: Fit to Fight: Miami Chefs Compete in Weight Loss Challenge for Charity
Brooks Fit to Fight journey has made the avid cyclist drop a whopping 15 pounds. "I worked out prior to the challenge but now I have stepped it up," says Brooks. Like many people, he attributes most of the weight loss to his diet. He also credits tips from his trainer Javier Pineda.
The chef recommends bike riding, although he wasn't always an avid cyclist. While he now rides to Key Biscayne at least once a week, in Vancouver and Boston his bike didn't get much action.
"When I moved here, the weather was just too fantastic to not get out and enjoy the scenery. It's such a great way to unwind and a phenomenal workout with low impact."
If you had the chance to attend Edge's cooking classes in the past, you know how much fun they can be. Picture that same set-up with a healthy twist.
"The formula worked and people loved it. I must mention though, despite the healthy angle, we will have some great libations as part of the experience."
Hey, there's nothing wrong with a little drink on a Saturday afternoon, especially when you're balancing it out with a healthy meal.
Through the class, Brooks will be sharing his own weight-dropping secrets and tips. He will also address some popular misconceptions about eating wholesome in a fun and approachable way. "Healthy food doesn't have to be bland. There are ways to spice up or add flavor without calories." Expect to pick something from the Edge garden and add it to your dishes.
Make sure to rest up the night before class, as the chef admits that a good night's sleep is the biggest factor in the following day's energy levels. "If I struggle to have a good night's rest, my workout and day are a lot tougher. Sometimes it's not up to me, though. My 1-year-old son dictates how much I sleep of late."
The cooking class is limited to 25 guests and will embrace the steakhouse's "light" concept, pairing cuts of meat with seasonal lighter side options throughout four courses.
"I think the movement towards over indulgence and rich heavy foods is thinning. For most folks feedback is it doesn't leave you feeling so great about yourself, so many chefs are really embracing lighter eating and creative vegetable based dishes. It's an exciting time to be a chef."
Healthy Cooking for Healthy Living takes place Saturday, September 13, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $125, with proceeds going to Fit to Fight and can be purchased via eventbrite.com. Class is limited to 25 persons.
Follow Carla on Twitter @ohcarlucha
Follow Short Order on Facebook, on Twitter @Short_Order, and Instagram @ShortOrder.
